“A picture is worth a thousand words.”–We’ve all heard that expression. A good picture can evoke thoughts and feelings. A great picture, however, can do so much more.
If you’re looking to step up your picture game and preserve memories on your next RV adventure, then look no further. We’ve compiled a few tips that are sure to help you take amazing photos of your RV.
How to Stage Your RV for Photos
There are a lot of reasons to take nice photos of your RV. Maybe you’re sharing photos on social media, listing your RV for sale, or renting out your RV with Good Sam RV Rentals. No matter why you’re snapping shots of your rig, staging your RV beforehand is key.
Staging creates the perfect balance of establishing a lived-in feel without being messy. A well-staged photo will make the viewer want to be a part of the scene; they should envision themselves settling in without having to move anything or make any adjustments. How do you achieve that? Creating a cozy vibe is easier than you think.
Start by cleaning. A clean space is like a clean slate or an empty canvas – everything you do afterward is like creating art. Wipe down the counters, vacuum and mop the floors, launder and fluff linens, then dust and wipe down all the surfaces. Touch up the paint on walls and doors, if needed. The last thing you want is to snap the perfect picture only to find dirt, scratches, and dust once you zoom in.
Set the scene. Once everything has been cleaned, it’s time for the fun part. Organize any items within eyesight so they appear neat and tidy. Put all plates and cups away. If you have open shelving, style and stack the dishware nicely. Even if they aren’t the focal point of your picture, they could potentially be in the background.
Create a Mood. Place a glass or two on the dinette and pour in grape juice or wine if you’re feeling fancy. Create an invitation where people want to feel included in the scene. Group items that suggest what the area is for together. Show an activity about to happen which can evoke a mood. A bowl of popcorn by a chair? It must be time for that movie you’ve been meaning to watch. A Scrabble board with a game already in progress? It must be game night.
Don’t forget the details. With the space clean and the mood set, what’s left? The details. Perfection always boils down to the tiny, little details. Walk through and take note of pillow placement, folded blankets, wrinkled rugs. Straighten anything that needs it. Grab some fresh flowers and put them in a vase. Is there a candle in the frame? Light it. Little things like this are what take an image from a basic picture to an insta-worthy photograph.
How to Take Staged and Candid Family Photos In and Around Your RV
Though your RV might feel like a member of the family, there’s more to consider than just posing in front of it. RV photos don’t have to feel stiff. If you’re looking to spruce up your photo album or hoping to take a picture worthy enough of a frame, we’ve got you covered.
Think about location. What most people fail to consider before they snap their picture is what is behind the subject. A background can make or break your image. Pull out of the parking lot, get out of the driveway, and hit the road to find something more inspiring. In storage, while a responsible choice, is not where you want to take your next photograph. When posting your RV for rent or sale, you’ll be surprised by how much a nice backdrop will drive interest in your listing.
Try pulling up to your favorite campground and parking directly in front of your favorite view. The image will hold special meaning and memories as a result. Take tips from staging and apply here; feel free to set up camping chairs or fire up the firepit. Create ways for your family to interact for a more interesting image. Someone could be in the doorway exiting the RV. Someone could have a waving arm hanging out of the driver’s side window. It’s possible to capture candid moments with a little bit of guidance along the way.
Lighting is everything. When it comes to taking an amazing photo, good lighting is imperative. If possible, shoot in natural sunlight as it’s the most complimentary light source. Aim for early morning after sunrise or late afternoon before the sun sets and take advantage of the golden hours those windows provide. When taking pictures inside your RV, open all the blinds and shades to let in as much light as possible. If your image ends up looking washed out, you can always tweak the contrast or tone down the exposure. It’s better to be too bright than too dark.
How to Photograph in Small Spaces
When taking pictures of an RV, the interior specifically, there are a few things to keep in mind so your images match (or exceed) what you’re seeing in person. How do you do this? It’s fairly simple to do, especially once you make a habit of it.
Pay attention to your angles. If you’re taking pictures for a listing, whether for sale or for renting, try to keep a consistent angle in every picture. Imagine taking the viewer on a tour and allowing them to see the RV through your eyes. Be conscious of height and sightlines. Use a wide-angle lens, if possible. For RV interiors, a wide shot is essential in capturing the perfect picture given the small space.
Pay attention to perspective. Spaces can look bigger when the perspective is exaggerated. If you’re taking pictures for fun, for your Instagram feed, or for printing and framing then playing with perspective will add depth and interest to your photos. Follow leading lines like countertops in the kitchen, stand on a ladder to get a higher vantage point, kneel or sit on the ground to get elongated images – all are ways to add depth for an amazing photo of your RV.
What are your favorite tips for taking pictures on the road? Tell us in the comments below.